Amy Jones feels ‘very lucky’ to reach England milestone

Warwickshire's Amy Jones had more than one reason to celebrate after reaching 100 IT20s for England.

The homegrown wicket-keeper, who also plays for Birmingham Phoenix and Central Sparks, became just the seventh England player to reach the milestone before England’s 53-run victory over Pakistan last Saturday.

A magnificent achievement in it’s own right, but for Joe, a proud Brummie, it was even more special to do it at her home ground.

With family and friends watching on, Beth Langston presented her with a commemorative cap before the start of play, and tears were shed.

The 30-year-old, who started her cricketing journey at Walmley CC, couldn’t believe what she had achieved.

“I’m not sure I would have thought that would have happened to be honest,” when asked what a 10-year-old Amy would have thought about the day. “Growing up at Walmley I dreamt of playing for England, but to have played that many is a great feeling and I feel very lucky to achieve that.

“I couldn’t believe it’s worked out this way and when I saw it was Edgbaston I thought it was very special. I’ve got a lot of my family here, which is great, and it meant a lot that it’s here. It’s somewhere I love to play and I feel very comfortable here.

“I’ve obviously spent a lot of time here over the years and we’re playing more and more here with England, which is special. I love the atmosphere that Edgbaston always brings and it’s crazy to see how much the game has come on (since her debut).

“When I played in 2013, there probably wasn’t too many people watching, just parents, so to play in front of a loud 12,000 plus is very special. You have to kick yourself looking back over that time.”

Jones made it a day to celebrate. Put in, England were 11/4 inside three overs before a fifth-wicket stand of 67 between the right-hander and captain Heather Knight helped the Three Lions reach 163/6.

With the gloves, Jones was at her best, taking four catches – including an inside-edge stunner – to help England go one up the series.

It was therefore no surprise to see the local girl receive the Player of the Match award.

“I was nervous,” added Jones. “It was just that extra attention and I like to fly under the radar most of the time. I certainly felt some nerves this morning, but as soon as I got into it, it was normal.

“Going out in that situation I was determined to build a partnership with Heather (Knight) and I’m happy with how that went. I think we’re both annoyed we didn’t get a few more, but it worked out well in the end.”

After clocking up three figures, Jones could pass more impressive milestones. The Sutton Coldfield native is nine appearances shy of 200 for England and 15 short of 100 ODIs.

“Hopefully, a few more years,” when asked how many more games can she add. “A lot is a stretch, but I’d love to play for England as long as I can. It’s the best job in the world, it’s great fun and I’m very lucky to share it with a special group.”